News

House Passes Regulatory Review Bill

08/02/2013

The House passed HR 367, legislation that would bar agencies from enforcing “major rules” unless Congress adopts a joint resolution of approval within 70 session days. The bill also would establish timelines and rules for consideration of the joint resolutions. “Major rules” are defined as those likely to cost more than $50 million. The definition also would include rules that would have adverse economic effects, as well as any regulations devised to implement the collection of a carbon tax or the Administration’s healthcare reforms. The White House issued a statement saying it would veto the measure. Administration officials noted that federal agencies are already required to adhere to federal law when promulgating rules and that Congress has authority to review them, although current law allows major rules to go into effect if Congress does not take action to review. It is unlikely that the Senate will take up this bill.